Wax Removal
Ear wax (cerumen) is the most common problem presented by patients at our clinics. A full hearing test cannot be performed if a build-up of ear wax is present, so the initial inspection of your ear canal is an important part of your consultation.
Ear wax is the build-up of debris and particles from the sebaceous glands and apocrine sweat glands in the canal. Normal levels of ear wax act as a protective layer, providing a barrier against dust and other bacteria entering the ear drum. However, excessive ear wax can often be the underlying cause of a hearing deficit.
To accommodate the growing demand for ear wax removal across our nationwide clinics, our team has undergone extensive training in Microsuction ear wax removal. Audiology Medical Services is proud to have been the first clinic in Ireland to introduce endoscopic wax removal and were the first clinic in Munster to introduce Microsuction.
Microsuction is regarded as the safest, most effective and quickest method of ear wax removal. With few limitations, the use of a microscope allows us to see directly into the ear canal while a medical vacuum gently removes any excess ear wax from the ear.
Endoscopic wax removal is the process by which wax is removed from the ear with the help of a specialist endoscope. An endoscope is an instrument attached to a video monitor that is used in medical procedures to look inside the body.
Irrigation is an alternative wax removal procedure available to suitable patients. Safer and more straightforward than syringing, an irrigation solution is warmed to body temperature before a controlled flow is gently streamed into the ear.
FAQ's
What is ear wax and how is it treated?
Wax helps protect our ears from dust, dirt and bacteria. The body produces ear wax naturally, but excessive amounts can effect your hearing.
Our Audiologists use a gentle Microsuction technique developed by Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists, to remove wax and debris. The procedure is regarded as the quickest, easiest and safest method of ear wax removal.
Are there side effects to wax removal?
All medical procedures have benefits, risks and possible side effects. Microsuction is considered to be a safe procedure, but you may notice some temporary changes to your ears, especially if the ear wax has been building up for some time. These include:
- A cold feeling in your ears
- Greater sensitivity to sounds
- Disorientation or dizziness
In rarer cases:
- Throbbing, or a sore feeling in your ear
- damage to skin of the ear canal or the ear drum during the procedure
- temporary reduction in hearing
- triggering of new tinnitus or temporary aggravation of existing tinnitus
Most of these symptoms will pass within 24 hours as your body adjusts. For any throbbing or soreness, it is recommended that you keep your ears dry for 24 hours. Please visit your GP if symptoms persist longer than 24 hours. We are also happy to review cases and refer to ENT, if necessary.
How often should you have the treatment?
Everyone produces different amounts of wax and at different rates. Some people need regular appointments to manage this, others only need occasional ones. Your audiologist will recommend what’s best for you.
